Thelma McCall Payton(1928 - 2013)

ThelmaMcCall PaytonHarlingen, TXThelma McCall Payton, age 85, died peacefully at home, on Wednesday, September 18, 2013, holding the hands of her loving husband, Marvin, in Harlingen Texas.Thelma was born on July 1, 1928 to Charles E. McCall and Helena Ethel De Graff in Miami, Florida.She was preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Bernice and brother Charles, and one grandchild, Rusty Payton.Survivors include her husband and sweetheart of 68 years, Marvin Henry Payton Sr. Thelma adored and cherished her loyal pet Lady, and her children, Marvin H. Payton Jr. (Yvonne), Daniel E. Payton Sr. (Kathy), and Nora H. Reynolds (Fred).In fact, in her heart there were NO in-laws and lovingly referred to her children's spouses as her children. Her pride and joy were her "Babies" as she referred to all of her 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews all of which she cherished.Thelma's heart was so big that she adopted many other children along the way. She was loved and cherished by all, including her church family, winter Texan friends, friends from the Elks Lodge, American Legion and countless others. Thelma's caregivers, Amenity Hospice group, were immediately adopted as family as well.Viewing and a Celebration of Thelma's life will be Saturday, September 21, 2013, at the First Christian Church, 421 S. 13th, Harlingen. Family will receive guests beginning at 11:00 a.m. with funeral services beginning at 1:00 p.m. There will be a private entombment with family at a later time.Memorial contributions may be made to First Christian Church @ (956)245-8738 and/or Amenity Hospice Group @ (956)361-5100.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Duddlesten Funeral Home, Raymondville, TX (956) 689-2151. Sign the guestbook at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/valleystar/